Complaint Review: Stylus Canada

I am adding a report regarding Stylus Canada. I was not surprised to see another case of an individual haven been taken advantage of by Stylus.

I am a Graphic Designer and became involved with Stylus through a mutual friend who also models with them. This is a close friend of mine, so I waved a contract and/or upfront payment prior to working on design projects.

I completed 2 projects for them, an advertising web banner and I designed and coordinated the printing of 800 Company Christmas Invitations.

I have contacted them weekly since October when I submitted my first invoice. I have not received any payment. They provided me with a bad cheque that was returned. I had already paid the printer, which now leaves me about a thousand dollars in the hole.

I have showed up at their office, sent them collection letters, numerous emails and phone calls. I keep receiving excuses from both Thomas Tharakan and Ted Ouellette. Finally I resorted to filing a claim against them in a small claims court. I served them court papers in person and was astounded to see a brand new Apple computer sitting on a desk that was previously empty. Clearly they have money to spend on expensive equipment! I am currently waiting for the 20 day deadline for Stylus to either A- pay me or B- file a defense. They know they don't have a case because I have kept every single email and document pertaining to this issue.

I am infuriated at how they operate their business. I have completed projects for them in a professional, dutiful manner and responded to their numerous changes and demands. The projects were delivered on time and I had even given a discounted rate for my services and didn't mark up the printer costs because of my friends referral. Clearly a big mistake and definitely a lesson learned.

I will take them to court without hesitation and will file any report I can, as it is completely unjust to take advantage of contractors, suppliers, models and service providers. It is unethical, unprofessional and simply wrong.

Vanessa
Toronto, Ontario
Canada